Wednesday, March 9, 2011

"BPA-Free" Plastics Still Leach Endocrine Disruptors

Plastic used to be considered a benign part of our daily lives. Then the media frenzy surrounding bisphenol A (BPA) erupted. Plastics manufacturers began prominently labeling their products as "BPA-free" to sooth scared consumers. But a new study shows that even BPA-free products may leach endocrine disrupting chemicals into the foods and liquids they contain.

The study, published last week in Environmental Health Perspectives, tested 455 common plastic products and found that 70% had estrogenic activity. That number rose to 95% when the plastics were subjected to a microwave or dishwasher. Certain BPA-free products released even more endocrine-disrupting chemicals than those containing BPA.

Though the effects of chemicals like BPA are still undergoing investigation, evidence suggests that pregnant women and children are particularly susceptible. The federal government is yet to take a stance against plastics containing endocrine disruptors, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency decided in February to create limitations on the amount of perchlorate allowed in tap water.

Better to avoid plastics that come in contact with food altogether. Use stainless steel, glass and ceramic kitchen appliances, bottles and utensils. Avoiding canned food and washing hands after handling receipts are other ways to minimize exposure to bpa.

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